FORSYTH, Ga. – On July 20, eight detainees graduated from RESCUED, a dog rescue and rehabilitation program at Colwell Probation Detention Center in Blairsville, Ga. Six of the seven dogs from this class (or group 16) were adopted following the graduation. Group 16 is the first group to complete the Georgia BEST (Business Ethics Student Training) Certificate Program through the Department of Labor. It is an intense, ten-week program that addresses soft work skills such as professional image and time management as well as resume and portfolio building. For more information visit: https://dol.georgia.gov/georgiabest

“We are proud of Group 16 and all of the hard work they displayed during the last 10 weeks,” said Commissioner Bryson. “This is the first class to attempt and complete Georgia BEST, and they will serve as a great example for group 17.”

RESCUED began in June 2012 and was the first dog rescue program established within the Department. Their mission is to rescue dogs from Colwell’s partners (Humane Society’s Mountain Shelter and Castoff Pet Rescue), which would otherwise be euthanized, while providing a positive impact on the detainees.

The following courses are also completed during the ten-week program: “Good Manners” (dog obedience techniques), Pet First Aid and CPR, On the Job Training in Grooming, Basic Animal Health, Basic Computer and Resume Building, Problem Solving Based on Spirituality, Workforce Development Career Coach, “How to Start a Small Business/Money Management”, and Anger Management. Detainees must also be enrolled in a GED courses if they do not already possess one.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5248 or visit gdc.ga.gov.